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Machinists

Also called: CNC Machinist (Computer Numeric Controlled Machinist), Machinist, Maintenance Machinist, Tool Room Machinist

What they do:

Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.

On the job, you would:
  • Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
  • Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
  • Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
On the job, you'll need:

Math and Science

  • arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Engineering and Technology

  • mechanical
  • design

Manufactured or Agricultural Goods

  • manufacture and distribution of products

Basic Skills

  • keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Hand and Finger Use

  • hold or move items with your hands
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Controlled Movement

  • quickly change the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat
  • change when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving

Ideas and Logic

  • notice when problems happen
  • use rules to solve problems

Realistic

People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Independence
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Innovation
  • Cooperation

Computer aided manufacturing CAM software

  • Dassault Systemes SolidWorks
  • Mastercam computer-aided design and manufacturing software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Computer aided design CAD software

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Dassault Systemes CATIA

Video courtesy of CareerOneStop.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for this position is Average.

New job opportunities are likely in the future.

Median Annual Salary: $48,510

Education

High school diploma/GED or certificate after high school is usually needed.

Explore More

See other careers in the Manufacturing industry.